Identify and mark your valuables

When claiming insurance you must be able to prove you owned any stolen items claimed for. Keep receipts, warranties, valuations and a list of serial numbers in a safe place. Take photographs or videos of jewellery, art works and other precious things. Portable items of high value are the most likely things to be stolen.

Burglars are unlikely to steal items that are permanently marked because they’re hard to sell. Engrave valuable items with your driver licence number, car registration number or phone number.

If you have engraved your valuable property or recorded the serial numbers of items, Neighbourhood Support can provide you with a warning sticker to put on a window. The sticker will discourage most criminals from taking your property because they know there is a greater risk of getting caught or traced if they handle and attempt to sell identifiable goods.

Operation SNAP

Anyone is able to record serial numbers and other unique identifying details of their valuable goods in an electronic database. For more information and to register your goods visit the Operation SNAP website.

Choosing an alarm

Alarms are only a back-up for locks, labels and lists. An alarm system can detect a burglar in action, but it can’t always keep the burglar out.

If you are considering an alarm, ask friends or colleagues to recommend a reliable company. When a security person arrives to inspect your property, ask to see their current Security Technician or Security Consultant Licence or Certificate of Approval. If they don’t have a licence, send them away. The law says they must be licensed.

Get detailed quotes and plans from several reputable alarm companies. Make sure your written contract contains a full service agreement. It must also contain normal warranties for equipment and service.

Don’t be pressured into buying something in a rush, or let a company ‘hard sell’ you an alarm system.

Credit card and PIN numbers

Your PIN number is like the key to your safe. Never tell anyone your PIN number. Don’t write it down – remember it!

Credit card thieves can empty your bank account. They can use your card to shop by telephone or on the Internet without having to sign your name.

If someone phones about your lost or stolen credit card, never answer their questions. Especially, never tell them your PIN number. The banks will never ask for it.

Use your bank

Keep your money in the bank, not at home. Use EFTPOS. Thieves can’t use your money machine card unless they know your PIN number. The banks will never ask for it.

Most banks offer a safe deposit box service to keep your valuables safe. Your valuables may be jewellery, share certificates, deeds and other important documents.

Protect your mobile phones

There are a number of apps you can use to help track down your lost mobile phone. Check the Google Play Store, App Store, or Windows Phone Store for an app that will run on your phone.

Make sure you are familiar with your phone’s brand and model. This will help when reporting lost property online or at a police station.

Protect your vehicles

Vehicles can be protected by the anti-theft devices which slow down or foil thieves. The more time a criminal spends attempting to steal a vehicle increases the likelihood of discovery and apprehension. The following are some of the different types available that can be fitted to your vehicle.